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Lemon Butter Chicken

ByAva
Published OnApr 13, 2026

Today, we are making Lemon Butter Chicken. This delicious dish is a satisfying, simple meal; it has the bright, zesty flavours of lemon as well as the creaminess of butter.

This recipe has its roots in Italian and Mediterranean cooking, where lemon is often used in seafood, poultry, and pasta dishes. The fresh taste of lemon cuts through the richness of butter, creating a balanced flavour. Lemon butter chicken is easy to prepare, it uses one pan, and does not require complicated cooking techniques. The chicken breasts cook quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Chicken, Butter, Lemon juice, Lemon zest, Fresh Garlic, White Vinegar, Garlic Powder, White pepper powder, Flour, Salt, Cooking oil.

Chicken breasts are preferred for this recipe because they cook faster. You can also use deboned chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier. Unsalted butter lets you control the dish’s seasoning, creating a smooth, velvety sauce. Fresh garlic adds a savory and aromatic note. Flour, white pepper powder, garlic powder, and salt season the chicken coating. A small amount of white vinegar, lemon juice, and lemon zest gives this dish a tangy flavor.

Instructions

Wash and clean the chicken breast. When dealing with a thick piece of chicken, place one hand on top of the breast and, with the other hand, slice horizontally into the side of the breast.

Remove any moisture by dabbing the chicken breast with a paper towel. This will create a thinner piece of chicken. In a bowl, add the flour, garlic powder, salt, and white pepper powder. Dredge the chicken in flour until well coated, then shake off any excess.

Heat a large pan on medium-low heat, and add a few drops of cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Grate the lemon zest onto a plate, then squeeze the lemon juice into a bowl.

In the same pan, lower the heat, add the butter with the finely minced garlic, and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant. During that time, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and white vinegar to the pan, then simmer for a few minutes.

Add the cooked chicken to the pan and coat it with the lemon garlic sauce. Cook for 2 to 4 more minutes, until the chicken is fully heated and coated in the sauce. Plate the chicken and drizzle any remaining sauce on the top.

The Lemon butter chicken is ready to be served and enjoyed. Garnish with a few pieces of chopped parsley. This recipe is more than just a simple meal; it is a celebration of zesty flavors along with crispy chicken breast. With its bright and tangy sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What can you serve with Lemon butter chicken?

Lemon butter chicken pairs well with Jasmine or basmati rice, as it absorbs the sauce beautifully. You can also slice the chicken into cubes, toss it with cooked pasta, and add sautéed or roasted greens to create a comforting meal. Vegetables, such as sautéed greens or roasted vegetables, will help balance a plate.

How to store Lemon butter chicken?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 4 days. Make sure that the chicken is at room temperature before adding it to the container. Reheat on the stove-top or in the microwave.

Expert tips

If you are looking for an herbaceous-flavored lemon butter chicken, consider adding a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary. Red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can add a spicy flair to the dish. For a creamier recipe, add a few tablespoons of heavy cream after adding the garlic.